Alexandria vs Roanoke: Occupational Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare occupational therapist salaries between Alexandria, VA and Roanoke, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alexandria, VA | Roanoke, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,215▲ | $101,009 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.58▲ | $48.56 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,711▲ | $70,246 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,250▲ | $81,119 |
| 75th Percentile | $124,746▲ | $117,581 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $141,923▲ | $122,672 |
| Total Employed | 26 | 180▲ |
Verdict
Alexandria, VA offers better overall compensation for occupational therapists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Roanoke.
The salary gap between Alexandria and Roanoke is $4,206 (4.16%). Alexandria's median is +1.76% compared to the US national median of $103,400.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alexandria spans $65,212,Roanoke spans $52,426. Alexandria has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Roanoke ($107,895 effective) pays 5.83% more than Alexandria ($101,953 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alexandria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,215/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,923)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Roanoke if…
- ✓Larger job market (180 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,895)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, occupational therapist salaries in Alexandria grew 9.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.7% growth in Roanoke over the same period.
Alexandria, VA
$93,017 (2024) → $102,091 (2025)
Roanoke, VA
$85,480 (2019) → $98,010 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alexandria, VA
Roanoke, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays occupational therapists more: Alexandria or Roanoke?
What is the hourly rate difference between Alexandria and Roanoke?
Should I relocate from Alexandria to Roanoke as a occupational therapist?
What do entry-level occupational therapists earn in Alexandria vs Roanoke?
Written by Jordan Miller, OTR/L
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in occupational therapy. They specialize in pediatrics and work in a rehabilitation clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.06% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Miller, OTR/L, a licensed occupational therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov